Quicksilver Handcrafted Jewelry has been a landmark on the Jersey Shore for 49 years. The indie retailer opened on White Street in Red Bank, N.J., in 1972, and has been the community’s go-to spot for sterling silver jewelry ever since.

But after nearly a half-century, owners Vance and Margaret Valente are closing up shop.

“After 49 years in business we have decided to retire,” they posted on Quicksilver’s Facebook page on March 13. “We want to thank you, our valued customers for your support throughout the years. We’d also like to thank our employees whose dedication and hard work contributed to our success!… We are looking forward to our next chapter. Thank you—we love Red Bank!”

The couple also thanked their children, who they said “were a big part of this family business.”

The retailer is hosting a retirement sale through June 15, the date the owners plan to shutter the store permanently. The business’ Facebook page is currently awash in gorgeous silver jewelry on deep discount, much of it Native American in design and spirit. It’s a shame the beloved store won’t be around for the spike in silver’s popularity many predict is right around the corner.

The Valentes didn’t respond to a request for comment, but Vance told local media site RedBankGreen that when he began leasing the space, “the rent was $175 a month. All the other tenants were paying $75, but I was the new kid on the block.” He worked nights assembling cars at the General Motors plant in Linden, N.J., to be able to open the store.

“The business is doing well,” Vance told the outlet. “It’s always done well. It’s just that I’m going to be 71, and it’s a lot of work.”

Top: Quicksilver Handcrafted Jewelry in Red Bank, N.J. (photo courtesy Quicksilver Handcrafted Jewelry)

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